Cymbalta, an antidepressant medication, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat major depressive disorder, diabetic nerve pain, generalized anxiety disorder and fibromyalgia. Some doctors, however, may prescribe this medication "off-label" for the treatment of autism. Although taking Cymbalta for autism may prove beneficial for some individuals, patients should do their own research and discuss the potential risks with their doctor or pharmacist before agreeing to use the medication for this purpose.
Before Treatment
Patients should always discuss autism treatment options carefully with a doctor before making the decision to take Cymbalta. They should also discuss the current research on using Cymbalta for autism. They also should discuss the possible risks, including the increased risk for self-harm or suicidal behavior in children, teenagers and young adults. Parents who are seeking treatment for their autistic child should discuss any long-term effects Cymbalta may have on their child's developing brain, suggests the National Institute of Mental Health.
Taking Cymbalta
Patients should always follow their doctor's specific instructions when taking Cymbalta for autism, as their instructions may vary from the official Cymbalta prescribing information. Generally speaking, most patients will take Cymbalta once daily by swallowing the tablets whole. Cymbalta does not need to be taken with food, but a glass of water may make it easier to swallow the medication. Those with specific questions about the proper way to take Cymbalta should call their doctors for advice.
Side Effects
Most clinical research done on the side effects of Cymbalta has been done on patients with depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia or diabetic nerve disorders. Although these studies did not include patients with autism, autistic individuals may experience the same side effects. The most common side effects were nausea, dry mouth, sleepiness, constipation, excessive sweating and a loss of appetite, according to the Cymbalta prescribing information. Serious side effects that may occur when taking Cymbalta include difficult or painful urination, easy bleeding, easy bruising, bloody or tarry stools, unusual heartbeats, rigid muscles, tremors, problems with memory, confusion, weakness, hallucinations, loss of coordination, fainting, seizures or difficulty breathing. Patients with these serious side effects need immediate medical attention.
Considerations
Although Cymbalta may be useful at treating some of the symptoms of autism, other treatments may also prove beneficial. Some autistic individuals have benefited from behavior-modification programs, special-education services, dietary interventions, supplements or other medications. Patients should not only explore all options, but also consider using multiple treatments at the same time.
Warning
Taking Cymbalta at the same time as an MAO inhibitor medication may cause serious and even fatal reactions. Those who have taken an MAO inhibitor medication should wait at least 14 days before beginning treatment with Cymbalta. Other prescription medications may also interact negatively with the medication. Individuals taking other medications for their autism or another medical condition should talk to a doctor about these potential drug interactions before taking Cymbalta.
